A County Durham burglar was caught red-handed after his electronic tag placed him inside a victim’s home during a burglary.

Robert Coles broke into a house on Argent Street, Easington, in the early hours of Saturday, April 13.

The 48-year-old from Horden, stole multiple items, including cash, an iPhone, a diamond ring, a camera, a passport, and a bag containing a driving licence and bank cards.

He also took two sets of car keys before stealing a Mitsubishi Outlander parked outside.

Robert Coles, 48, from HordenRobert Coles, 48, from Horden (Image: DURHAM CONSTABULARY) Unknown to him, his electronic tag recorded his presence inside the house and then tracked his route as he drove away from the scene.

CCTV footage from the area also placed him at the location at the time of the crime.

Coles pleaded guilty at Durham Crown Court earlier this month. This week, he was sentenced to three years and one month in prison.


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Detective Constable Shaunagh Foreman, of Peterlee Volume Crime Team, said: “Burglary is a disgusting invasion of privacy that severely impacts victims and the wider community.

“Coles is a prolific offender who clearly thought he was above the law.

“Our team worked tirelessly to bring him to justice, and I hope it brings some reassurance to his victim and the community now he is off the streets.”